Fest-a-Ville on the Waterfront returns for its twelfth year in 2018. Sponsored by Kroger, the party starts on the Great Lawn on Thursday, April 26 and runs through Derby Eve, Friday May 4. It promises to have something for everyone- and admission is free with a 2018 Pegasus Pin.

The 900,000-square-foot venue will host several Festival events including the U.S. Bank Great Balloon Glimmer, Derby of the Dead, Battle of the Bounce, Chow Wagon, Fitness Jam, Ohio Valley Wrestling Run for the Ropes, Passport GospelFest, V Foundation Celebrity Bocce Tournament, HappyTail Hour, Ken-Ducky Derby, YMCA Healthy Kids Day Presented by Humana (featuring the miniFun Run), BeerFest Presented by American Founders Bank, Neigh-Maste on the Waterfront and the awards presentation for the Great Steamboat Race, among others.

Fest-a-Ville also offers a wide variety of activities for children, featuring a expanded midway-area and attractions at Pegasus Play-Ville including merry-go-round, ships ahoy, a giant slide and much more. Helicopter rides return this year for $40 (April 27 – May 4).

From the opening day ribbon-cutting to Derby Eve, Fest-a-Ville will be the downtown destination at Kentucky Derby Festival time.

Thursday, April 26: Kirby’s DreamlandFriday, April 27: RadiotronicSaturday, April 28: Wax FactorySunday, April 29: The Jesse LeesMonday, April 30: Shane DawsonTuesday, May 1: 64 WestWednesday, May 2: J.D. ShelburneThursday, May 3: The Velcro PygmiesFriday, May 4: The Goldy Locks Band

Food and drink tickets are required for food and beverage. These tickets may be purchased at designated ticket booths or automated ticket distribution machines. Cash or credit card is accepted at ticket booths and ticket machines.

Are ATMs available?

We offer ATMs on the venue in multiple locations. Ticket booths will accept cash or credit cards.

Are phone charging stations available?

Phone charging stations are available. They are located near the ATM’s.

Does Kroger’s Fest-a-Ville offer recycling?

Recycling is important to KDF. Recycling receptacles are scattered throughout the venue. You will find them next to the garbage cans. The receptacles accept plastic bottles, cans and cups only.

Is first aid available?

First Aid stations are located in multiple locations on the venue.

Is KDF merchandise available?

KDF merchandise is offered in a tent near the main entrance of the great lawn area.

What about Pegasus Pins?

KDF Pegasus Pins, old and new, are available for sale in the Pin Trailer near the front gate of the Chow Wagon. Also, a 2018 Pegasus Pin is required for entry to the event and those can be purchased outside the front gates.

Is there special pricing for Happy Hour?

Happy Hour is offered weekdays from 4-6pm. Beers are available for only $2.00 each.

Do you offer other alcoholic beverages in addition to beer?

We offer beer, but also offer wine, bourbon, vodka and a great variety of spirits for sale on the venue. Check out our bars for specifics.

What is the policy on pets?

Pets are not permitted on the venue. An exception is made during HappyTail Hour, Dog owners are encouraged to bring their pet/s and mingle with other dog lovers during this special programming.

Do you have any other restrictions or policies for the venue?

Food, drink, coolers, cans, bottles, bikes, blades and skateboards are not permitted in the venue. All personal bags are subject to search.

Where can I park for the event?

In Downtown Louisville, there are more than 52,000 public parking, off-street spaces within a 10-block walk to the River. For more information on garage and lot locations visit one of these websites at: www.riversideparking.com/locations.html or www.louisvilleky.gov/PARC/ or contact the Parking Authority of River City (PARC) at (502) 587-PARK.

Will rain or weather cancel the event?

Very rarely, we will close or postpone the event due to weather. We will notify our media outlets if we do so.

Do you offer special programming for military?

Yes, military day is featured on Saturday, April 28. All military personnel will get FREE admission to the venue between 11:00 AM and 11:00 PM.